The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has given NexGen Energy Ltd. the green light to construct a uranium mine in the Athabasca Basin. This marks the second significant uranium project licensed by the national regulator in Saskatchewan this year.
NexGen’s Rook 1 project, an underground mine situated in the southern Athabasca Basin approximately 150 kilometers north of La Loche, falls within Treaty 10 territory. The commission announced its approval for NexGen to proceed with building a mine and mill at the project site, with a separate license required for mine operations.
Construction is set to commence this summer and is anticipated to wrap up within four years. The company projects an annual uranium production capacity of up to 30 million pounds (over 13,000 tonnes), which could contribute around 20% of the current global fuel supply.
Vice-president Adam Engdahl stated that NexGen plans to invest $2.2 billion during the construction phase over the next four years. Engdahl emphasized the crucial support received from Indigenous partners and community members, highlighting the unprecedented backing that has expedited the project approval process.
Upon full operation, the mine is expected to generate 459 permanent jobs and have a projected operational lifespan of 24 years. Ongoing exploration in the vicinity suggests potential development of adjacent uranium deposits in the future.
NexGen has garnered support from Indigenous communities affected by the project, including agreements with the Clearwater River Dene Nation, Birch Narrows Dene Nation, Buffalo River Dene Nation, and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan. These agreements, while confidential, typically encompass provisions for employment, training opportunities, support for local businesses, and financial benefits.
Speaking on the transformative impact of the project, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Local 39 president Keith Shewchuk expressed optimism about the opportunities it presents for the community. He noted that the collaboration with NexGen has already started yielding economic benefits in the area.
NexGen’s initiative aligns with the growing interest in uranium production in Saskatchewan, as evidenced by the recent licensing of Denison Mining Corp.’s Phoenix project in the Athabasca Basin. The commission sanctioned Denison’s project, signaling the beginning of mine and mill construction activities.
Furthermore, Cameco Corp., a key player in the uranium sector, solidified a substantial trade deal with India to supply 22 million pounds of uranium over nine years starting in 2027. This agreement reflects the expanding scope of uranium trade activities involving Saskatchewan-based companies.
Trade and Export Minister Warren Kaeding highlighted the positive impact of NexGen’s mine on the local economy, emphasizing the potential for job creation and career development opportunities. The Saskatchewan Mining Association underscores the significance of uranium mining in the province, employing over 2,300 individuals, with nearly half of the workforce hailing from northern communities.
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission conducted public hearings in Saskatoon earlier this year to inform its decision on NexGen’s licensing. Interested parties can access hearing submissions from NexGen, communities, and individuals via the commission’s website.